Ahlstrom, a global leader in high performance fiber-based materials, today announced the completion of the acquisition of Fiberweb's consumer wipes business. Following the acquisition, initially announced in March 2007, Ahlstrom will become the third largest producer of nonwoven roll goods globally.

The acquisition price is EUR 65 million. The acquired business includes four plants, two of which are located in Italy, one in Spain and one in the USA. In 2006, the net sales of the acquired business amounted to EUR 110 million and it employed approximately 400 people. The wiping fabrics business acquired serves mainly the personal care, baby care and household wipes markets.

"The closing of this acquisition is an important landmark in our global growth strategy. Our investments in organic growth as well as the recent acquisitions will position Ahlstrom as the leading wiping fabrics producer and the third largest supplier of nonwoven materials in the world. Strong market presence further improves our ability to serve our customers globally", says Jukka Moisio, President and CEO of Ahlstrom Corporation.

The market for wiping fabrics is estimated to grow at a rate of 7% annually, and even higher growth rates are anticipated in the emerging markets.

Ahlstrom is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high performance fiber-based materials. Nonwovens and specialty papers, made by Ahlstrom, are used in a large variety of everyday products, e.g. in filters, wipes, flooring, labels, and tapes. The company has a strong market position in several business areas in which it operates, built upon the company's unique fiber expertise and innovative approach. Ahlstrom's 5,700 employees serve customers via sales offices and production facilities in more than 20 countries on six continents. In 2006, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.6 billion. Ahlstrom's share is listed on the Helsinki Stock change. The company website is www.ahlstrom.com.